The MeidasTouch Podcast: Rep. Dan Goldman is Fighting Back as Trump’s Plans Backfire

Release Date: March 15, 2025
Hosts: Ben Meiselas, Brett Meiselas, Jordy Meiselas
Guest: Congressman Dan Goldman

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosts Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas delve deep into the current political and economic landscape, focusing on the aggressive strategies employed by former President Donald Trump and their unintended consequences. The episode features a riveting discussion with Democratic Congressmember Dan Goldman, who provides an in-depth analysis of Trump's policies and their impact on the American economy and democratic institutions.

Economic Concerns and Federal Reserve Predictions

The episode kicks off at 2:22 with Ben highlighting troubling data from the University of Michigan. He references the worst inflation expectations since 1993 and the lowest consumer sentiments since 2022, coupled with alarming unemployment predictions reminiscent of the 2008 recession. This sets the stage for a critical examination of the current economic climate.

Ben (02:22):

"The big news from this data was not inflation expectations by itself, but also if you look at what people are saying about the jobs market, the expected change in unemployment is the worst since the 2008 recession."

The discussion transitions to a clip from Howard Lutnick, Trump's commerce secretary, reacting vehemently to the Federal Reserve's forecast of a 2.4% economic contraction.

Howard Lutnick (03:11):

"Right here, right now. That is ridiculous."

Dan Goldman's Critique of Trump's Policies

At 3:42, Ben introduces Congressman Dan Goldman, who responds to Lutnick's outburst by addressing the broader implications of Trump's policies on the economy. Goldman emphasizes the pervasive fear and uncertainty sown by Trump's erratic decision-making, which he argues is detrimental to both businesses and consumers.

Dan Goldman (03:51):

"So what this whiplash with the tariffs has done is it's not only clearly driven up prices and is going to drive up prices, but it has spooked the American economy. And because there's no clear strategy here, it is purely Donald Trump's whims and latest gut feeling."

Goldman further criticizes Trump's approach to governance, highlighting attacks on vulnerable populations and essential services.

Dan Goldman (05:59):

"Donald Trump promised to make the cost of living much more affordable for lower and middle class Americans. And what he has done since January 20th is the exact opposite."

Impact of Government Spending Cuts

At 8:28, Ben brings to light a paradox where, despite Trump's aggressive cuts and restructuring within the federal government—such as firing veterans and slashing the Department of Education—federal spending reached a record $603 billion in the previous month.

Ben (08:28):

"Despite everything that Doge has done... last month there was more federal spending than any prior month in the history of the United States of America. $603 billion last month."

Goldman responds by outlining the ulterior motive behind these cuts: reducing taxes for the wealthy and corporations rather than addressing the deficit.

Dan Goldman (09:52):

"They are actually cutting all of these essential programs for the vast majority of American people in order to cut taxes on the wealthy."

He also highlights the inefficiencies and conflicts of interest inherent in Trump's administration, particularly pointing out Trump's attempt to divert federal contracts to his private enterprises.

Dan Goldman (11:53):

"He is trying to use his power and his influence to take over an FAA contract for his Starlink company at the tune of $2.4 billion. And it's an egregious conflict of interest."

Judicial Intervention on Federal Worker Rehiring

The conversation intensifies at 14:02 when Ben discusses a pivotal court ruling mandating the immediate reinstatement of tens of thousands of fired federal workers. This decision directly challenges Trump's executive actions to dismantle federal agencies and reduce government workforce.

Ben (14:02):

"Judge has ruled that tens of thousands of fired federal workers must be reinstated immediately."

Congressmember Caroline Levitt's response is met with skepticism by Goldman, who questions the legitimacy and authority of lower court rulings that undermine executive decisions without proper legal grounding.

Dan Goldman (14:40):

"She might also want to look down in the fifth Circuit for how many nationwide injunctions a district court judge down in Texas has issued in favor of Republicans."

Goldman vehemently defends the civil service and underscores the detrimental effects of indiscriminate government purges on national security and public services.

Dan Goldman (15:25):

"This type of purging is just gutting our civil service. It will make our government far less efficient, far less effective, and it's really going to jeopardize our national security."

Conclusion and Final Remarks

As the episode draws to a close, Ben and Goldman exchange thoughts on the ongoing resistance and opposition to Trump's policies within Congress. Goldman calls for greater oversight and accountability, urging that Trump's influence not be unchallenged.

Dan Goldman (16:31):

"Donald Trump is not king. That's not how this country works. The courts are analyzing what the rationale is for these complete cuts, just slashing, without any real individualized attention or focus."

Ben wraps up by encouraging listeners to support the movement against these detrimental policies and to stay informed through the podcast’s various platforms.

Key Takeaways

• Economic Instability: The Federal Reserve's prediction of a 2.4% contraction and alarming unemployment forecasts indicate significant economic challenges ahead.

• Critique of Trump’s Policies: Congressman Dan Goldman criticizes Trump's erratic and self-serving policies, emphasizing their negative impact on the economy and vulnerable populations.

• Contradictory Federal Spending: Despite significant government shutdowns and cuts, federal spending has reached unprecedented heights, revealing inconsistencies in administration actions.

• Judicial Pushback: Courts are actively countering Trump's attempts to dismantle federal agencies by mandating the reinstatement of fired workers, highlighting a clash between the judiciary and executive branches.

• Call for Accountability: Goldman urges for increased oversight and accountability to prevent the erosion of democratic institutions and protect essential public services.

Notable Quotes

• Ben (02:22):
  "The big news from this data was not inflation expectations by itself, but also if you look at what people are saying about the jobs market, the expected change in unemployment is the worst since the 2008 recession."

• Howard Lutnick (03:11):
  "Right here, right now. That is ridiculous."

• Dan Goldman (03:51):
  "It is purely Donald Trump's whims and latest gut feeling."

• Dan Goldman (09:52):
  "They are actually cutting all of these essential programs for the vast majority of American people in order to cut taxes on the wealthy."

• Dan Goldman (16:31):
  "Donald Trump is not king. That's not how this country works."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast provides a thorough and incisive analysis of the current political turmoil, emphasizing the repercussions of Trump's policies on the American economy and democratic institutions. Congressman Dan Goldman offers a passionate defense of democratic values and underscores the urgent need for accountability and responsible governance. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics at play, making this episode an essential listen for anyone invested in the future of American democracy.